Intracutaneous cornifying epithelioma (keratoacanthoma) in the dog: a retrospective study of 25 cases

The clinical, histopathologic, and behavioral features of 25 cases of intracutaneous cornifying epithelioma (ICE) in the dog were reviewed. A typical ICE consisted of a keratin-filled crypt in the dermis and subcutis that opened to the skin surface. Most of these tumors occurred on the back, neck, sides of the thorax, and the shoulders. Two distinct patterns existed-a solitary form (single growth) and a generalized form (up to 40 growths). The Norwegian Elkhound appeared to be a breed predisposed to the development of the generalized type. Breed predilection for the solitary form was not observed. The ICE was a benign neoplasm, and simple surgical excision was curative except in the generalized cases in which additional growths developed. Keratoacanthoma of man and ICE of the dog were compared, and it was concluded that although they are similar in many respects they are not identical entities.